San Juanico Bridge Rehabilitation Plan Advances
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has launched a revised rehabilitation plan to raise the San Juanico Bridge’s maximum load capacity to 33 metric tons. This upgrade marks a dramatic rise from the current three-ton limit, enabling heavier vehicle traffic across this vital Eastern Visayas connection.
DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan has tasked the agency’s Region VIII office to work closely with engineering consultants Angel Lazaro & Associates International. They are finalizing the detailed program of works, with civil construction expected to finish within five months. Originally, the plan aimed to increase the load capacity to 10 to 12 tons, but after further review, a higher limit was deemed necessary to support growing transport demands between Samar and Leyte.
Critical Infrastructure for Eastern Visayas
Spanning 2.16 kilometers, the San Juanico Bridge is a crucial transport artery linking Samar and Leyte. Despite its importance, its load-bearing capacity has limited the flow of heavy vehicles for years. The new rehabilitation plan addresses this bottleneck, promising smoother and safer mobility for both commercial and private transport.
To minimize disruptions during the rehabilitation, the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) and the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) have assured uninterrupted shipping services between Calbayog City in Samar and Ormoc City in Leyte. This alternative route will help maintain the flow of goods and passengers throughout the project.
Port Upgrades Support Bridge Rehabilitation
Alongside the bridge upgrades, the DPWH also reported significant progress at the Amandayehan Port in Basey, Samar. The port’s initial upgrades are nearly complete, with the PPA conducting final validations following the contractor’s turnover on June 4. Once formally handed over by the Basey local government, the port will undergo additional development under PPA supervision. This will ensure it serves as a reliable transport alternative during the bridge’s rehabilitation.
While the immediate focus is on increasing the San Juanico Bridge’s load capacity, the DPWH emphasized that a full rehabilitation remains a long-term priority. The agency reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the bridge’s safety and functionality, recognizing its role as a lifeline for the region.
“We remain fully committed to ensuring the long-term safety and functionality of the San Juanico Bridge, a vital artery for the region,” local leaders noted.
For more news and updates on San Juanico Bridge rehabilitation, visit Filipinokami.com.
